Akpabio harps on unity at armed forces remembrance

Akpabio says the Tinubu-led administration is ready to take Nigeria to greater heights and urged citizens to remain supportive

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to put aside their differences in order to create a vision for the future, regardless of their political, ethnic, or religious beliefs.

Akpabio made this statement while speaking at the inter-denominational Church service to mark the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Sunday, 14th January, 2024. 

He however, gave heartfelt thanks to those who lost their lives defending Nigeria, emphasising that their sacrifice would never go unappreciated.

He said, “Nigeria, this great nation, is populated by people of diverse faiths. Whether Christians, Muslims, or followers of other religions, Nigerians share a deep-rooted belief in God and the power of prayers. It is no small feat that despite the challenges plaguing our nation, our people remain united as one entity – Nigeria. This is a testament to the resilient spirit of unity that defines us, transcending our diversity in culture, religion, and tribe.

The unity of Nigeria came at a great price. The sustenancey and defence of this unity rests on the shoulders of the men and women of the Armed Forces, and the true weight of loss is carried by the families and dependents of these fallen heroes. If only we could share the pain they feel, then we would truly understand the imperative of eschewing insecurity and violence in all its forms.

“The year 2023 was an eventful one, marked by general elections and a change in leadership. Our nation is still grappling with the effects of long-overdue multi sectoral reforms needed to propel us forward and position Nigeria among the great nations of the world. I urge for support to the government of His Excellency President Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, during this crucial time as we strive to achieve the Nigeria of our dreams. In this regard, I reiterate the President’s assurance that “our tough times will not last,” and we should renew our hope in a great Nigeria.

“Now is the time for all stakeholders to set aside our differences, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliations, and come together to strategize on the way forward for this great nation that our gallant men and women of the Armed Forces paid, and continue to pay, the ultimate price to preserve. It is also a time for sober reflection, to take stock of past events such as the civil war, and to reflect on current challenges like the war on insurgency, incessant attacks on innocent Nigerians, the spate of kidnappings across the country. We must reflect on their causes and work together to prevent future occurrences.”

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Akpabio further asked the christendom and other stakeholders in Nigeria to join hands with the Tinubu-led administration as well as the nation’s armed forces to tackle the issues that have threatened the co-existence of the country.

According to Akpabio,  “I call upon the church to partner with the government in a much-needed rebranding of Nigeria. The church is urged to continue spreading the gospel of love for oneself, others, and our country. We must blur the lines that divide us across ethnic and religious boundaries through messages of tolerance, peace, unity, and progress. 

“This administration is more determined than ever to strengthen and promote the oneness and indivisibility of Nigeria because the strength of our great nation lies in our diversity.

“Once again, let us salute the courage and appreciate the sacrifices of our men and women of the Armed Forces. Let us stand in solidarity with the families of our fallen heroes and heroines. I assure you that the government will continue to evolve policies to address the challenges you face as a result of your loss. 

“The inclusion of veterans, their dependents, and caregivers into the Social Welfare Register through the Ministry of Defence is a commendable initiative of the current administration. The President, Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces is committed to implementing welfare programs within the services for the families of deceased personnel while making continuous efforts to address any remaining gaps.”

STAR Check: Nigerians, particularly, constituents of Akwa-Ibom North-West district, can keep tabs on the legislative performance of Sen. Akpabio throughout the 10th Senate here.